Okpebholo suspends revenue collection in Edo, orders arrest of defaulters

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday, ordered the immediate suspension of all revenue collections in the state, particularly at motor parks and similar areas, until further notice.

Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, were sworn in on Tuesday by the Chief Justice of the state, Daniel Okungbowa, at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

In a statement released by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor directed the state Commissioner of Police to arrest anyone who defies the order.

The statement read, “The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate and indefinite suspension of all revenue collections in Edo, especially in motor parks and similar areas, until further notice.

“The governor stated that he would review the issues surrounding the collections soon and decide on the way forward.

“The collection of revenues in the state has been suspended indefinitely.”

The governor warned that anyone found collecting revenue on behalf of the state government would face arrest.

“The Commissioner of Police is hereby ordered to arrest anyone who flouts the order and collects any kind of revenue on behalf of the state government.

“The governor will soon address the issues and concerns raised. He will issue new directives shortly. Until then, no one is authorised to collect revenue on behalf of the state government,” the statement stated.